Multi-story multi-unit buildings

ABSTRACT

A modularly-built, or equivalent in assembled prefabricated kit of parts (KOPs), building system assembled to form multiple units and multiple stories comprising of generally rectangular stacked volume load bearing modules with optional prefabricated exteriorly-attached components, including a typical unit floor plan layout of at least two adjacently-arranged modules. The floor plan layout is adjustable by division or separation, alteration, or expansion from the unit&#39;s/units&#39; original layout. All primary rooms along a unit&#39;s/units&#39; perimeter receives natural light and natural cross- and induced-ventilation from at least two exterior non-parallel walls through windows and/or doors. Optionally, an assembly of at least two 2-story buildings could frame, or one 2-story building could incorporate, an in-between or centrally located vegetated courtyard garden. Such courtyards can be outfitted with roofs and sidewalls with fixed or operable louvers.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of co-pending U.S. provisional application No. 62/203,843, filed on Aug. 11, 2015, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference as if set forth in its entirety herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Various embodiments described here generally relate to multi-story, multi-unit buildings and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a building system or the equivalent in assembled prefabricated kit of parts (KOPs) for such buildings.

BACKGROUND

Factory-built, prefabricated housing constructed with an assembly of prefabricated KOPs has been utilized since the early 20th century. Later, modular housing arose as a more efficient method of construction. Both methods delivered the advantages of a cost-effective predictable production line model geared primarily for construction of single-family residences. Recently, a resurgence of modular single-family housing production has occurred with the push for green design standards, but these designs are typically suited to suburban and rural realms.

Modular multifamily housing structures and other use type modular structures, such as for commerce or office space, are fabricated to maximize unit count and/or square footage on a given site and are inflexible and limited in terms of addressing the health and well-being of their occupants, the full consideration of market demands, sustainability and biophilia, and the integration of urban gardens and vegetation to mitigate environmental conditions in the urban context.

A need exists, therefore, for building systems that overcome the above-mentioned disadvantages.

SUMMARY

Due to these concerns, it is sustainably timely-to advance a modularly-built or prefabricated assembled KOP system, with multiple units and multiple stories, and constructed within a predictable production line model. These formats can be rapidly assembled on-site, minimizing urban congestion and neighborhood disruption, providing an adaptable unit plan to respond to a variety of market demands for varying levels of affordability, pursuing a conservative approach toward both embodied energy for construction and use of limited resources, mitigating the heat island effect in the urban context, and enhancing the health and well-being of occupants with biophilic means. Likewise, the buildings composed of these units can allow for a versatile-use type—from residential housing to office suites to commercial space—thereby offering a richer, more diverse and adaptable urban context.

One embodiment of the present invention is a multiple-unit, multiple-story design with adaptable unit-loading and versatile-use type, based on a row of at least two adjacently-arranged, generally-rectangular volume modules of either modularly-built factory construction or equivalent in situ assembled prefabricated KOPs, with another same row set similarly disposed adjacently-arranged generally-rectangular volume modules stacked above the first set of modules to form another level.

Another embodiment of the present invention is the option for the unit floor plan layout(s) to be adaptable to a variety of market demands for a given use type structure. For example, wherein the occupant use type structure is for housing purposes, a studio, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, 3-bedroom (or more) unit floor plan is convertible by either subdivision, separation, alteration, or expansion from the unit's original layout with minimal adjustments. The extent of such accommodation is contingent upon and limited to the initial floor plan.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the multiple-unit, multiple-storied building(s) can be versatile to incorporate different use types (e.g., housing, dormitories, office, commercial, etc.), either by single dedicated use or as a mixed use entity (a plurality of uses) to the extent permissible by building code and those authorities having jurisdiction.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, each unit receives natural daylight and natural cross- and induced-ventilation from at least two exterior walls through windows and/or doors at the exterior perimeter rooms.

Another embodiment of the present invention includes an option for occupants to further benefit from outdoor space, air, light, and vegetation through the option of modularly-integrated or attached prefabricated balconies, balconets, and/or “sky gardens” at or along the unit's/units' perimeter(s).

Another embodiment of the present invention is the option for at least two buildings comprised of at least two stories with two units on each side or one building comprised of at least two stories with four units can frame and benefit from a central or in-between vegetated courtyard.

A further embodiment of this intervention provides for fixed or operable louvers and panels which can be adapted to site-specific considerations such as prevailing winds for ventilation, inclusion of dawn/dusk sunlight, adequate shading for full sun, and use as a windbreak.

A further embodiment of this intervention is the use of “sky gardens,” an integrated biophilic element of the design that establishes physical and visual connections to a garden. Shrouding privacy louvers around the sky gardens impede viewing angles from points outside while still allowing the sky garden to receive direct and indirect sunlight and cross-ventilation.

According to another embodiment of the present invention is the option to incorporate natural daylight from the roof to the interior-spaced non-perimeter rooms, conducted through highly-reflective solar light tubes enclosed within a vertically-aligned utility chase.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the minimum-maximum dimensions of the modules can be 12 to 16 feet wide and 24 to 80 feet in length.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, all walls, floors, ceilings, columns, beams, and roofs of the modules (of either modularly-built factory construction or equivalent in situ assembled prefabricated KOPs) can be constructed of dimensional lumber stock, cross-laminated timber, light gauge steel, and steel.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the exterior walls (in either single-stud or double-stud deep construction or insulated cross laminated timber), windows, and exterior doors can be constructed as super-insulated types to conserve the energy requirements of both heating and cooling loads.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, an entry vestibule, stairway(s), and corridor(s) can be contained within at least one module at the first floor/street level to provide access to levels below and above through vertically-aligned stairways.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, circulation and exit pathways to and from the unit(s) are provided by means of aligned stairway(s) and/or elevator(s), with horizontal corridors generally stacked one above the other.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the aligned stairway(s) can be of three different types: 1) single-flight stairs, 2) exit stairs, or 3) doughnut stairs, each contingent upon the module's width and established between-floor elevation(s).

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the concierge, lobby/lobbies, main utility room(s), storage room(s), vehicular access ramp(s), and vehicular parking can be situated anywhere between the first floor (i.e., street level) and the fourth floor, or to level(s) below the first floor/street level.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the roof(s) can be of any shape (sloping or flat), constructed of a durable material with a high albedo, and be outfitted with photovoltaic panels, evacuated solar thermal panels, solar light reflecting tubes, skylights, and rainwater catchment systems.

A further embodiment of this invention is for flat-roofed buildings to have an optional continuously-aligned stairway, with access (from the floor below) to a rooftop deck, which could be outfitted with an extensive green roof, planting beds, outdoor showers, and/or hose bibs for garden irrigation.

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description section. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale. In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical component that is illustrated in various figures may be represented by a like numeral. For purposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in every drawing. Various embodiments will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1a is a first floor plan view of an unassembled 2-bedroom dwelling unit comprised of two adjacently-arranged modularly-built modules about west-east axis;

FIG. 1b is a first floor plan of an assembled handicap-accessible 2-bedroom dwelling unit comprised of two modularly-built modules about a west-east axis;

FIG. 2a is a second floor plan view of an unassembled 2-bedroom dwelling unit comprised of two adjacently-arranged modularly-built modules about a west-east axis;

FIG. 2b is a second floor plan of an assembled 2-bedroom dwelling unit comprised of two modularly-built modules about a west-east axis;

FIG. 3a is a first floor plan of an unassembled 2-bedroom dwelling unit comprised of three adjacently-arranged modularly-built modules about a north-south axis;

FIG. 3b is a first floor plan of an assembled handicap-accessible 2-bedroom dwelling unit comprised of three modularly-built modules about a north-south axis;

FIG. 4b is a second floor plan of an assembled 2-bedroom dwelling unit comprised of three modularly-built modules about a north-south axis;

FIG. 4c is a second floor plan with two dwelling units—a studio and a 1-bedroom unit—comprised of three modularly-built modules about a north-south axis;

FIG. 5 is a second floor plan with two dwelling units—a studio and a 1-bedroom unit—comprised of three modularly-built modules about a north-south axis;

FIG. 6 is a second floor plan of a 1-bedroom dwelling unit comprised of three modularly-built modules with super-insulated exterior walls, windows, and doors;

FIG. 7 is a second floor plan of a 1-bedroom dwelling unit comprised of three modularly-built modules with a vertically-aligned utility chase to bring natural light into the unit's interior;

FIG. 8 is a second floor plan of an assembled 2-bedroom dwelling unit composed of prefabricated KOP walls, floor, bay windows, balconies, and stairway;

FIG. 9 is a second floor plan of an unassembled 3-bedroom dwelling unit comprised of four adjacently-arranged modularly-built modules about a north-south axis;

FIG. 10 is a second floor plan of an assembled 3-bedroom dwelling unit comprised of four modularly-built modules about a north-south axis;

FIG. 11 is a second floor plan of an assembled two 1-bedroom dwelling units comprised of four modularly-built modules;

FIG. 12 is a second floor plan of studio unit and a 2-bedroom unit comprised of four assembled modularly-built modules;

FIG. 13 is a second floor plan of an unassembled 3-bedroom dwelling unit comprised of four adjacently-arranged modularly-built modules about a north-south axis;

FIG. 14 is a second floor plan of an assembled 3-bedroom dwelling unit comprised of four modularly-built modules about a north-south axis;

FIG. 15 is a second floor plan of a studio unit and a 2-bedroom unit comprised of four assembled modularly-built modules;

FIG. 16 is a second floor plan of an assembled two 1-bedroom dwelling unit comprised of four modularly-built modules;

FIG. 17 is a roof plan view of two buildings with an in-between vegetated courtyard;

FIG. 18 is a second floor plan view of two buildings showing a total of three dwelling units and an in-between vegetated courtyard;

FIG. 19 is a longitudinal cross-section of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a detail section view of an enlarged portion of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a section elevation view of the courtyard in FIGS. 17 and 18;

FIG. 22 is an optional transversal section of the courtyard in FIGS. 17 and 18;

FIG. 23 is an optional transversal section of the courtyard in FIGS. 17 and 18;

FIG. 24 is an optional transversal section of the courtyard in FIGS. 17 and 18;

FIG. 25 is an optional roof plan view of the buildings shown in FIG. 18.

FIG. 26 is a third floor plan view of a building of two dwelling units with two bedrooms each;

FIG. 27 is a section view of a sky garden;

FIG. 28 is a section view of a sky garden;

FIG. 29 is a second floor plan view of a building illustrating two dwellings with a one-flight stair;

FIG. 30 is a second floor plan view of a building illustrating two dwelling units with an exit stair;

FIG. 31 is a second floor plan view of a building illustrating two dwelling units with a doughnut stair;

FIG. 32 is a second floor plan view of a building illustrating two dwellings with a one-flight stair and a connecting corridor;

FIG. 33 is a second floor plan view of a building illustrating two dwellings with an exit stair stair and a connecting corridor;

FIG. 34 is a second floor plan view of a building illustrating two dwellings with a doughnut stair and a connecting corridor;

FIG. 35 is a fourth floor plan view of a building showing three dwelling units and an in-between vegetated courtyard;

FIG. 36 is a fourth floor plan view of a change in use type building showing two office suites and an in-between vegetated courtyard;

FIG. 37 is a partial fourth floor plan view of an office building showing an office suite and an in-between vegetated courtyard; and

FIG. 38 is a seventh floor plan view of a multi-unit dwelling building built with cross-laminated timbers in the prefabricated KOP method of construction with elevators and in-between vegetated courtyards.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments are described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and which show specific exemplary embodiments. However, the concepts of the present disclosure may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided as part of a thorough and complete disclosure, to fully convey the scope of the concepts, techniques and implementations of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. Embodiments may be practiced as methods, systems or devices. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

Reference in the specification to “one embodiment” or to “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least one example implementation or technique in accordance with the present disclosure. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

In addition, the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes and may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the disclosed subject matter. Accordingly, the present disclosure is intended to be illustrative, and not limiting, of the scope of the concepts discussed herein.

All of the figures and plans presented herewith, consisting of all exterior and interior walls, floors, ceilings, columns, beams, and stairs, can also be built as factory prefabricated KOPs in lieu of the factory-built generally rectangular volume module(s), and can be freighted, hoisted, and assembled on site to form an equivalent unit(s).

In FIG. 1a , a first floor plan view illustrates two factory-built rectangular volume load bearing modules (1) and (2). These modules consist of load bearing exterior walls framed onto load bearing framed floor joist plates and topped with framed ceiling or roof joist plates, or rafter framed plates in the case of an inclined roof. In the case of prefabricated KOP modules, the walls, floors and ceilings are load bearing panels or plates that are assembled on site. Furthermore, in the case of prefabricated KOP made with cross laminated timber it is possible for the load bearing floor and ceiling to be integrated into a single plate or panel.

Here, modules (1) and (2) are adjacently arranged about a west/east axis of orientation, along with a prefabricated bay window (5). The three parts are freighted by truck from factory to a given site, then hoisted by crane and assembled onto a building foundation to form the first floor layout of a handicap accessible 2-bedroom dwelling unit (shown in FIG. 1b ).

Similarly disposed rectangular modules (3) and (4) of FIG. 2a , are also factory-built, shipped, and hoisted into position in a stacked manner directly above the preceding modules (1) and (2) of FIG. 1a to form the second floor of the structure, which is outfitted with a non-handicap accessible 2-bedroom dwelling unit, shown assembled in FIG. 2b . FIG. 2a also illustrates a prefabricated bay unit (5) and balconets (6), which are also factory-built, shipped separately, and assembled on site to attach to modules (3) and (4).

The dwelling unit of FIG. 1b illustrates the potential for one or two building entry doors (7 a) and (7 b) about a common hall/entry (8) and stairways—(9 a) and (9 b)—contained within one module to provide access to the levels above and basement below. The dwelling unit entry door (10) connects to the unit's hall (11). The main rooms of the unit are the master bedroom (12), bedroom (13), and an open plan living/dining/kitchen (L/D/K) room (14). Essential to this invention is to maximize light and natural cross- or induced-ventilation to these main rooms through either windows and/or doors at certain locations (15). FIG. 1b also shows how the bedroom (13) is framed in between the master bedroom (12) and L/D/K (14), and that the most effective method to produce any significantly adequate natural ventilation is by induction through windows (15) which could be substituted with doors and a balcony at the protruding bay (5). Here, the components to achieve induced ventilation are the west- and east-side windows of the bay (5). The main rooms are supported by secondary rooms: bathroom (16), walk-in-closet (17), master bathroom (18), storage room (19), stackable washer/dryer closet (20), and mechanical closet (21).

The assembled second floor dwelling unit plan in FIG. 2b is identical to the first floor unit in FIG. 1b , except for a tub in the master bathroom (18) instead of a curb-less shower, a decrease in width of most doors, a directional switch of one door in bathroom (16), and the addition of balconets (6) which allow for the increase in natural light and ventilation.

FIG. 3a illustrates how the aforementioned first and second floor dwelling units of FIGS. 1a-2b can be replicated by assembling three factory-built, rectangular adjacently-arranged modules instead of two. In this configuration, the three modules (22), (23), and (24) are aligned perpendicularly to the west-east axis of orientation of the preceding example described in FIGS. 1a-2b . Now with a north-south axis of orientation, the bay (5) is factory-installed and integral to the module (23) because this present geometry does not exceed the maximum transport dimensions. Despite the change in the module's main axis of orientation, FIG. 3b shows that the assembled handicap accessible first floor plan of the 2-bedroom unit of FIG. 3a is identical to the unit in FIG. 1 b.

In a manner similar to the preceding example of FIGS. 1a-2b , in FIG. 4b the three modules (25), (26), and (27) can also be crane-hoisted and assembled into position above modules (22), (23), and (24) of FIG. 3b respectively to form a second floor 2-bedroom dwelling unit. Again, despite the change in the modules' main axis of orientation, the plan here is identical to the unit in FIG. 2b with the exception of the doubling-up of the interior partitions at and along the abutting modules, and the additional attachment of balconies (28) to the west and east of modules (25) and (27).

Another feature of this invention is the insertion of partitions (29) about the hall (11) which can be either factory installed or placed in situ at any time. Upon and/or prior to insertion, both partitions and door frames can be constructed to meet fire code requirements. In either case, this measure allows the door frames to receive two new unit entry doors, subject to approval from the local authorities having jurisdiction.

FIG. 4c further illustrates this key feature by showing exactly how the second floor 2-bedroom dwelling single unit in FIG. 4b can be readily and easily altered with minimal intervention to create two units, namely a 1-bedroom dwelling unit and a studio dwelling unit, first by simply removing the doors at master bedroom (12), storage room (19), and fire rated door at unit entry (10) in FIG. 4b , and secondly by adding two new separate fire rated unit entry doors—(10 a) and (10 b)—at partitions (29) in FIG. 4c . This measure could easily revert back to the initial single unit with two bedrooms in FIG. 4b , again per approval of local authorities having jurisdiction. Per the International Building Code, the interior demising walls between the newly formed two new units, their floor/ceiling assembly, and the fire protection system would best be designed and built to accommodate the sub-division or separation.

To conclude with the description of FIG. 4c , the former master bedroom (12) in FIG. 4b now transforms into a studio unit with living/dining room (30) during the day. This room, fitted with a pullout sleeper sofa, could become a bedroom at night. The former storage closet (19) in FIG. 4b can be pre-outfitted with plumbing stub outs and electrical connections to be transformed into a kitchenette (31). The bedroom (13) in FIG. 4b becomes the one bedroom of the new separate and distinct adjacent 1-bedroom dwelling unit in FIG. 4c . The washer/dryer closet (20) becomes a shared amenity between the two units in the now common hall (11), and the mechanical closet (21) can be shared between the two units or dedicated to the 1-bedroom unit (the latter condition would necessitate the mechanical equipment for the studio unit to be installed in the ceiling of the kitchenette [31]).

The assembled second floor dwelling plan in FIG. 5 illustrates another two-unit option: one studio unit primarily in the module (25) to the west, and separated by partition (29), a 1-bedroom unit in modules (26) and (27). Both units are almost identical to the units in FIG. 4c , except here the 1-bedroom unit entry (10 a) is directly off the landing of stairway (9) and a different bay window type (5) can induce ventilation for the bedroom (13).

Another feature of this invention is for the exterior walls to be of varying thickness and insulated proportionally to given climatic conditions in order to conserve energy for both heating and cooling loads. FIG. 6 illustrates extra-thick super-insulated exterior walls of either single-stud or in the case of double-stud deep construction, to prevent thermal bridging. The windows and exterior doors are also super-insulated or high efficiency types to be thermally compatible with the walls.

From a plan distribution point of view, FIG. 6 illustrates an assembled second floor unit with a 1-bedroom option. Here the kitchen cabinets (32) of the combined single-space L/D/K (14) can be located along the north width of module (27). The home office (34) can also be accessed from the combined living space (14) via a large pocket door (33). A bay window (5) with built-in-window seat in the home office (34) represents another variation. Bay window (5) with built-in seating in the living room (14) shows an enhancement for space, light, and air within the unit.

The inclusion of natural daylight from the roof to the interior non-perimeter rooms is another feature of this invention. FIG. 7 illustrates how highly-reflective solar light tubes, enclosed within a fire-rated vertically-aligned utility chase (35), channel natural light and elbow off main verticals towards ceiling points (36) at the hall (11) and bathroom (16).

The assembled second floor plan in FIG. 7 depicts another 1-bedroom unit wherein the kitchen (37) is contained in its own room but accessed from the living/dining room (14) via a large pocket door (33). The kitchen (37) is also fitted with another bay window (5) variation type. Both west and east exterior walls have access to balconies (28).

The distinction between the in situ assembled prefabricated KOP plan and the factory-made, modularly-built plan of the preceding examples is evident in FIG. 8. The sole layout difference between the two building systems is that instead of doubling of interior partitions where adjacent modules abut each other, the prefabricated KOP method requires only a single factory-built paneled interior load bearing partition (29).

FIG. 8 illustrates another typical second floor unit with a two bedroom option similar to the 2-bedroom unit of FIG. 4b , except here the narrowest dimension is 12 feet from face of exterior wall to centerline of interior partitions (29), resulting in a smaller master bath (18) and a spatially-desirable bay window (5) with built-in seating at the L/D/K (14). The bedroom (13) is fitted with another variation of the bay window (5) that enables cross-ventilation.

FIG. 9 presents a four-module assembly for three initial options, with convertibility to a 3-bedroom unit option, a two 1-bedroom option, or a 2-bedroom/one studio option. All modules (25) and types (26 a-d) are shown at widths of 14 feet, although they could be built up to 16 feet wide. All modules (27)—from FIG. 9 to FIG. 16—are at the maximum 16-foot wide dimension.

The assembled second floor plan in FIG. 10 illustrates the 3-bedroom unit option with thick super-insulated exterior walls. The specific combinations of the type of (26 a-d) middle modules and their respective (16 a-d) bathrooms are key in determining the unit's possibilities. The unit entry (10) is directly off of the common hall (8), but could also be directly off of stair landing (9). A vertical utility chase (35) feeds natural light through tubes at points (36) in the ceiling. The master bathroom (18), storage areas (19 and 19 a), washer/dryer location (20), and mechanical room (21) are aligned and grouped together to provide flexibility with minimum intervention toward creating different unit(s).

The inserting partition (29) in FIG. 11 creates two 1-bedroom units with entry points at (10 a) and (10 b) off of hall (8). Storage (19 a) in FIG. 10 is easily converted into washer/dryer closet (20) with connections to adjacent plumbing lines, and storage (19) is converted into hall (11) which is accessed from the unit's entry (10 a). The former closet (17) in FIG. 10 near master bathroom (18) is removed, while the bathroom is transformed into the unit's kitchen (38) by connecting into the nearby plumbing and electrical lines. This particular alteration represents the most significant convertibility alteration of this invention. Naturally this conversion is reversible to recreate a 3-bedroom unit again, or could start out as two 1-bedroom units.

In FIG. 12, the inserting partition (29) creates a 2-bedroom/one studio option with entry points at (10 b) and (10 c) off of the hall (8). Here, the module (26 c) and respective bathroom orientation (16 c) is used instead of module (26 a) of FIGS. 9-11. A kitchenette (31) for the studio unit is situated so to connect to adjacent plumbing and electrical lines. The unit configuration options (i.e., either with an initial 3-bedroom plan or reverting back to a studio/2-bedroom option) can be achieved relatively easily.

FIG. 13 again shows a four-module assembly for three options with convertibility to create either a 3-bedroom unit option, a one studio/2-bedroom option, or a two 1-bedroom option, all dependent on the initial plan distribution. A new intermediate module (26 d) and respective bathroom (16 d) orientation are presented here.

FIG. 14 shows another 3-bedroom unit option, similar to that shown in FIG. 10, except the intermediate modules (26 c) and (26 d) are inserted with corresponding bathrooms (16 c) and (16 d).

In FIG. 15, an inserting partition (29) creates a studio/2-bedroom option with entry points at (10 c) and (10 d) off of the common hall (8). The kitchenette (31) for the studio unit is situated so to connect with plumbing and electrical lines at the master bathroom (18). The unit configuration options (i.e., either with an initial 3-bedroom plan or reverting back to a studio/2-bedroom option) can be achieved relatively easily.

FIG. 16 shows another two 1-bedroom unit option similar to that of FIG. 11, except here the intermediate modules (26 a) and (26 d) are used with their corresponding bathrooms (16 a and 16 d). To create or recreate a 3-bedroom unit, the kitchen (38) can be removed and the master bathroom (18) and closet (17) of FIG. 10 can be inserted, making use of existing partitions, and plumbing, and electrical lines.

Another feature of this invention is the possibility for a given unit to expand. FIGS. 1a -16 show that all units can expand by simply adding one or more modules at either the west and/or east ends. The principal consideration in doing so is to have the prerequisite foundation or structurally-suitable module or structure beneath the expansion module together with proper plumbing riser alignments and electrical connections. Secondly, the internal hall (11) of both units must align. To illustrate this (FIG. 14), a 1-bedroom unit structure, composed of modules (26 d and 27), could later be expanded by adding module (26 c), thus making it a 2-bedroom unit; again with approval, expanding on this yet again by adding another module (25) would create a 3-bedroom unit. Further, modules could be expanded at either west or east ends. For example, another module without internal partitions could adjoin module (27) and double the space of the living/dining/kitchen area (14).

In FIGS. 17 and 18, a central vegetated courtyard (40) is situated between two buildings, each holding a combination of 2-bedroom, 1-bedroom, and studio dwelling units (similar to FIG. 4c and a mirror image of FIG. 4b ), which are assembled with three modules each per floor. The entire composition (i.e., building-courtyard-building) can, for example, be situated between two parallel streets with each building having a separate front entrance on their respective street, and can be connected exteriorly with a covered walkway (49). FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate vegetative elements integrated to enhance the occupants' health and well-being and the urban context at large. The vegetated courtyard (40) can be landscaped with appropriate trees, shrubs, grasses, flowers, water elements, and necessary hardscape. Street-side balconies (28) about L/D/K (14) and courtyard-side balconies (28) can support planters (43). Courtyard-side balconies (28) can also provide structural support for sky gardens (50) together with shrouding privacy louvers. Visual connection to the sky gardens (50) can be made through windows at closet (17); access to the sky gardens and the courtyard-side balconies (28) can be made through a glazed or partially glazed door at the shower of master bath (18) which also provides natural ventilation and visual connection to the sky garden. Access via stairway (9) and through door (39) to a landscaped rooftop in FIG. 17 further shows the use of planters (43) fitted with guardrails that frame roof decks (45) which can be built of hardy, fast-growing, non-tropical forest/non-rainforest hardwoods (preferable to other types of wood) or recycled plastic planks. The deep planters (43) can provide for occupants' urban harvesting of vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Shrubs planted here can also provide scenery and/or screening for leisure. Outdoor shower (44), coupled with nearby hose-bib, can be a source for cooling off and the irrigation of nearby planters. An extensive green roof (42) of sedum and/or of wildflowers along the roof perimeter further integrates vegetative elements with the rooftop. The internal vertical utility chase for the natural light-supplying solar tubes culminate at rooftop domed hubs (46). The energy demand of the two buildings is mitigated with photovoltaic panels (47) and evacuated solar thermal panels (48), which are either self-ballasted or mounted onto the roofs (41). Roofs (41) are sheathed in a white membrane with high albedo. Internal roof drains at roofs (41), green roofs (42), planters (43), and surface areas beneath roof decks (45) combine to form a rainwater catchment system to store water in a cistern for further use rather than diverting the water and loading the city's storm water system.

FIG. 19 illustrates a longitudinal cross-section of the entire composition of FIGS. 17 and 18. The building foundations can be insulated throughout its exterior to conserve the energy used to heat the buildings. The manufacturing of cement for the production of concrete is the highest carbon-emitting process of the construction industry; therefore, it is preferable when possible to use a less carbon-intensive concrete made with appropriate amounts of blast furnace slag component and integrated insulated concrete forms with high post-industrial content.

At the basement level, a common fitness room (55) can be fitted with operable wide windows to provide natural ventilation, natural light, and visual connection to courtyard (40). The basement also houses the building's mechanical and electrical rooms (56) and additional storage (57) for the units above. To conserve resources, the buildings can be equipped with low-wattage LED light fixtures, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and (depending on local climate) heated and cooled with high-efficiency heat pumps and condensers. More conservation measures can be accomplished with use of a grey water system. Grey water and rainwater catchment system cisterns can be located beneath courtyard (40) at points (54).

The use of courtyards to enhance a building's microclimate has existed for thousands of years. The new concept here is to couple the use of courtyards with efficient, factory-made or prefabricated KOP modules and use the inherent thermodynamic properties to mitigate the energy demand at the individual buildings to positively impact the heat island effect at the urban scale, as well as to provide a highly-beneficial space for occupants' health and well-being. Traditionally, courtyards are framed within a building. Here however, in FIGS. 18, 19, and 21, are two variant options. FIG. 19 shows the first option with a courtyard-like space at ground level framed between the two buildings and two low-embodied energy walls built of stone, rammed earth, compressed earth blocks, or hemperete (51) which are parallel to the buildings' north and south sides. Roof overhangs (58), together with required structural struts (59), can be extended relative the buildings' latitude and the sun's altitude to optimize seasonal shading or solar radiation gains. The second courtyard option is illustrated in FIG. 18 and in section elevation view FIG. 21: here the courtyard is flanked by two 3-story buildings to the west and east, and enclosing walls (51). Added vertical steel columns (52) are anchored to concrete structural piers within the enclosure walls (51), supporting horizontal louvers (53) and roof (41) (also shown in FIG. 17), to form a louvered shroud around the courtyard's north and south elevations (as shown in section elevation FIG. 21).

The courtyard's proportions (described by width [w] and depth [x] in FIG. 18 and height [y] in FIG. 19) are variables which, together with overhanging roofs—(58) (shown in FIG. 19) and (41) (shown in FIG. 21)—and the angle of horizontal louvers (53) (also shown in FIG. 21), the local climate, and the materials used, can impact its thermodynamic properties. For example, a courtyard with adequate width, depth, height, and short overhangs at (58) and (41), with appropriately-angled horizontal louvers (53) and materials, can be the right setting in a temperate climate to shield the sun's rays during the summer but be open enough for the sun's desirable radiation gain during the winter. To determine all of these variables requires coordination and site-specific solar calculations, and would result in a thermodynamically modulating space which would be, relative to open urban air, cooler during the summer and warmer during the winter, thereby mitigating the energy demands of the buildings. Moreover, increased vegetation would further augment the climatic and atmospheric benefits of evapotranspiration, as well as create a biophilic, multi-sensorial environment for the building's occupants and the city.

The enlarged section view of FIG. 20 shows the third floor unit of FIG. 19. Here we see roof planters (43) with ballasted guardrail, roof deck (45), and extensive green roof (42) with an extended overhang which protects the third floor balcony (28) below from the elements. Roof (41) can be super-insulated for energy conservation, and door (63), ceiling fan (62), and windows—(60) and (61)—can also contribute to conserving energy. While any type of window can be used, the tilt-turn type (combination in-swinging casement/hopper) is preferred here for optimal ventilation, operability during inclement weather, and ease to clean in a multi-story context. Also, the preferable in-swinging balcony doors (63) with an inward tilting door combination provide for desirable cross-ventilation. Optional transom hopper windows (61) can further assist in cross-ventilation, expelling hot or stale air, as well as inducing cool air during “night flushing.” Ceiling fan (62) in all rooms about exterior walls can reduce or eliminate the need for air conditioning; their reversible blades can circulate air to cool during the summer and minimize heat load in winter. Typical interstitial space (90) between the third floor modules and the ceilings of the second floor modules allows for horizontal network runs for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems.

FIGS. 21 and 22 illustrate that it is possible to incorporate a parking garage (66) for at least five compact cars (and potentially more depending on courtyard and lot dimensions) beneath courtyard (40). Car ramp(s) (65) in dotted areas of FIG. 22 can be situated at the sides of the building(s) or directly aligned with the building(s) footprint. The courtyard is supported by structural deck (67), and planters (43) support trees and shrubs above the deck. FIG. 22 shows a variety of roof options (41 a-c), with roof type (41 a) being ideal for a temperate climate in that it can capture significant open sky with full sun (F) and radiation gains during winter. Dotted flat roof with smaller aperture (41 b), or dotted sloped gable roof with or without aperture (41 c), are ideal for hot-humid climates because they yield a higher shading incident. All roof options allow for additional photovoltaic panels (47). In order to set the angle of horizontal louvers (53), site-specific considerations—such as prevailing winds for ventilation (V), inclusion of dawn/dusk sunlight (D), adequate shading for mid-morning to mid-afternoon sun (E) and mid-day full sun (F), and use as a windbreak—must be taken into account.

Section view of FIG. 23 depicts a courtyard section that would work best in a hot arid climate with horizontal louvers at a greater angle to minimize dawn/dusk sunlight (D), provide good shading during mid-morning to mid-afternoon sun (E), and allow for a small roof aperture (41 b) with full sun (F), while having some spacing between louvers for cross ventilation (V). Given significant diurnal temperature swings, an optimal retractable roof (41 d) can be timed to close in order to trap cool air and open in order to release accumulated radiation. Courtyard humidity levels can be increased by adding a water feature (87) and/or incorporating urban gardens (69), for vegetable, fruit, or flowers—which can be either vertical or horizontal—along the interior of the louvered shroud (53). Access to the gardens can be accomplished on each floor by unit balconies (68), which run parallel to the louvered shroud.

FIG. 24 shows the transversal section of another courtyard option. It is possible to further enhance the thermodynamic properties of the courtyard by using an adjustable louvered shroud—(53 a) and (53 b). The louvers could be synchronized to optimally rotate when following the sun's movement by means of a computer program and electrical motor powered via the photovoltaic panels. During summer, louvers—(53 a) and (53 b)—can rotate to provide a mix of appropriate shade, direct light, and indirect light; during the winter, louvers on one façade can close to form a windbreak and be selectively lined on the underside to capture solar radiation from the opposing façade in order to warm the courtyard at a cooler time. Any of the proceeding roof types (41 a-d) (shown in FIG. 22) can be used to best fit the building and climate.

FIG. 25 illustrates a sloping gable roof plan alternative for the building/courtyard composition of FIGS. 17-19. The sloping roof (70) is sheathed with a high albedo recyclable standing seam metal. Fusible link skylights (71 a) are shown over the stairways (9), and operable skylights (71 b) are shown over bathrooms below. The roofs can also be outfitted with domed hubs (46) for the natural light-supplying solar tubes, photovoltaic panels (47), evacuated solar thermal panels (48), and rainwater catchment system.

FIG. 26 illustrates the third floor plan of two dwelling units with two bedrooms each. The unit plan distribution is similar to the 2-bedroom unit of FIG. 4b and its mirror image forms the second adjoining unit minus the master closet (17), but includes sky gardens (50). In lieu of an exit stair is a doughnut stair (9). Unit entry doors are shown at (10 a) and (10 b). In this example, modules (25), (26), and (27) span the two units (L) thereby facilitating expediency, construction, transportation, and assembly. Each unit has balconies (28) to the west and east elevations, as well as sky gardens (50).

In FIGS. 27 and 28 we see two sections that illustrate each possible variation for the shrouding privacy louvers about the sky gardens (50). The section in FIG. 28 shows louvers (73) positioned to impede viewing angles (Q) from points outside, while still allowing the sky garden to receive direct and indirect sunlight from several points (D-F), and cross ventilation (V). Non-louvered gaps (72) can also allow sunlight. Section view in FIG. 27, better suited to higher elevations, shows louvers (73) positioned to impede viewing angle (R) from points outside but allow narrow viewing angle (S). Planters (43) with plants can further block the viewing angle. While both of these examples illustrate louvers with a fixed angle, it is also possible to have either manually- or mechanically-operable louvers.

FIGS. 29-31 show that, with a layout similar to the preceding examples, it is also possible to use a one-flight stair (9) at FIG. 29, an exit stair (9) at FIG. 30, and a doughnut stair (9) at FIG. 31, within the middle module (26) instead of the end module (27). Similarly, and not illustrated here, but evident in the preceding figures, is that all three stair types can also work within module (25) or (27).

FIGS. 32-34 show that, with a similar plan layout to the preceding examples, it is also possible to connect the two buildings (illustrated in FIG. 18) with connecting corridor (74). Although these buildings are designed to be code compliant as three stories with a single stairway and equipped throughout with fire protection systems, an additional stairway connection through a common corridor provides an extra measure of safety and encourages social interactions between the occupants.

International Building Code limits dwelling use type buildings to three stories if they do not include an elevator. FIG. 35 is essentially a building composed of the dwelling unit plan shown in FIG. 33 and its mirror image, with both framing a courtyard (40), and including a glazed elevator (76) oriented for occupants to look upon the courtyard and vertical wall garden (78) as they travel up to the fourth floor or higher to the sixth floor; these modules could be constructed using dimensional stock lumber. Beyond the sixth floor, per the International Building Code, the modules have to be built with light gauge steel walls, steel deck floors, and steel columns and beams, or, preferably, built with cross-laminated timber walls, floors, columns, and beams. Additionally, FIG. 35 shows glazed lobbies (77) which also peer into the central courtyard and connect common corridor (74) with dwelling unit points of entry (10 a-c).

FIG. 36 illustrates the same building from the prior example and illustrates the concept of this versatile use type. The dwelling unit building of FIG. 35 is now converted to an office use type building with minor alterations and additions. For example, the master closet of units (10 b) and (10 c), (shown in FIG. 35), can be converted to a copy room (82) or kitchenette (31), (shown in FIG. 36). Master bathrooms of units (10 b) and (10 c) (shown in FIG. 35) can be converted to handicap accessible bathrooms (83), (shown in FIG. 36). Internal hall (11) in unit (10 c) (shown in FIG. 35) can be altered into a reception area (84) in FIG. 36. Inserting partition (29) in L/D/K (14) of unit (10 c) can create a private office (80) and a conference room (81), and L/D/K (14) of unit (10 a) can become an open office (79) with three or more desks; without any changes, bedrooms can become private offices (80) or conference rooms (81).

FIG. 37 depicts a dedicated use type office building which is similar to FIG. 36. This building, FIG. 37, can be expanded along the west-east axis by inserting three intermediate modules (26 e-g) between bookend modules—(25) and (27)—to build a larger office suite. In addition to private offices (80) and conference rooms (81), the suite can include: copy room (82), handicap bathroom (83), reception area (84), secretarial desk (85), and lounge (86). The office suite is accessible via stairs (9) and glazed elevator (77) through corridor (74). Again, the mirror image of this plan can be replicated on the other half of the courtyard. The number of elevators can increase along with the size of the courtyard, and the length of modules can be doubled to include two office suites in a manner similar to the plan example of FIG. 26. This plan could be versatile to other use types such as a medical clinic or an academic building.

FIG. 38 illustrates this concept of mirror image replication and increasing the length of the modules. Here again we see the dwelling unit plan mix of 2-bedrooms, 1-bedrooms, and studios of the preceding examples used to form two buildings with three units each per floor (10 a-f), with two courtyards (40 a) and (40 b), and a pair of glazed elevators (76) with views into courtyard (40 a). This courtyard can be framed along the outer perimeter with a louvered screen, a vertical garden (78), or a water element (88). The elevators, together with the common corridor (74), bridge the buildings. Stairways (9) have glazed exterior walls to provide views beyond. While this plan can work easily for modules of a four-story structure, adding a matrix of either cross-laminated timber or steel columns (100), together with associated beams, floors, and walls of similar material, enables this plan to extend vertically to a mid-rise tower.

The methods, systems, and devices discussed above are examples. Various configurations may omit, substitute, or add various procedures or components as appropriate. For instance, in alternative configurations, the methods may be performed in an order different from that described, and that various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. Also, features described with respect to certain configurations may be combined in various other configurations. Different aspects and elements of the configurations may be combined in a similar manner. Also, technology evolves and, thus, many of the elements are examples and do not limit the scope of the disclosure or claims.

Embodiments of the present disclosure, for example, are described above with reference to block diagrams and/or operational illustrations of methods, and systems, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The functions/acts noted in the blocks may occur out of the order as shown in any flowchart. For example, two blocks shown in succession may in fact be executed substantially concurrent or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved. Additionally, or alternatively, not all of the blocks shown in any flowchart need to be performed and/or executed. For example, if a given flowchart has five blocks containing functions/acts, it may be the case that only three of the five blocks are performed and/or executed. In this example, any of the three of the five blocks may be performed and/or executed.

Specific details are given in the description to provide a thorough understanding of example configurations (including implementations). However, configurations may be practiced without these specific details. For example, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques have been shown without unnecessary detail in order to avoid obscuring the configurations. This description provides example configurations only, and does not limit the scope, applicability, or configurations of the claims. Rather, the preceding description of the configurations will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing described techniques. Various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure.

Having described several example configurations, various modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents may be used without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. For example, the above elements may be components of a larger system, wherein other rules may take precedence over or otherwise modify the application of various implementations or techniques of the present disclosure. Also, a number of steps may be undertaken before, during, or after the above elements are considered.

Having been provided with the description and illustration of the present application, one skilled in the art may envision variations, modifications, and alternate embodiments falling within the general inventive concept discussed in this application that do not depart from the scope of the following claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A modular structure comprising: a first story of at least two adjacently-arranged, generally-rectangular volume load bearing modules; and a second story of at least two adjacently-arranged, generally-rectangular volume load bearing modules stacked on the modules of the first story.
 2. The structure of claim 1 comprising different use types, either singly, by change of use, or by a plurality of uses.
 3. The structure of claim 1 comprising at least two modules housing one unit and being sub-dividable to form two units.
 4. The structure of claim 3, said two units being altered to revert back to one unit.
 5. The structure of claim 3, with said two units being altered to house one unit.
 6. The structure of claim 1, further comprising a third module which can house at least one unit.
 7. The structure of claim 6 further comprising a second three modules housing at least one unit and added to the first three modules in a manner parallel and adjacent to the first three modules to expand said original units.
 8. The structure of claim 1, with at least one module of the first story housing at least a vertically-aligned entry vestibule, corridor, and stairway to allow access to levels above and below.
 9. The structure of claim 1, with all primary rooms at a unit's perimeter receiving natural daylight and natural cross- and induced ventilation from at least two exterior non-parallel walls through windows and/or doors.
 10. The structure of claim 1, further incorporating a vegetated courtyard garden.
 11. The structure of claim 10, with the garden outfitted with roofs, sidewalls, and louvers.
 12. The structure of claim 1, further comprising a prefabricated balcony/garden exteriorly-attached along a unit's second floor perimeter.
 13. The structure of claim 1, with a unit having privacy louvers positioned to receive sunlight and cross ventilation while impeding viewing from outside.
 14. The structure of claim 1 further comprising an interior vertically-aligned enclosed utility chase with highly-reflective tubes for conducting natural light from the roof to interior non-perimeter rooms.
 15. A prefabricated kit of parts for constructing any of the structures of claims 1-14. 